Water Damage Restoration Oklahoma City is a complex process that professionals should only do. These experts must have the proper certifications, insurance plans and coverages, and equipment to do the job properly.
They inspect the affected area and determine what repairs are needed. They also check the porousness of materials and how much water they’ve absorbed.
It’s important to take prompt action to mitigate water damage. This helps prevent the problem from getting worse and also saves money in the long run. Even a small leak can cause severe damage to furniture, flooring, walls, and appliances in just a few days. Homeowners should contact a water restoration expert as soon as they notice any suspicious signs of moisture, such as a spike in their water bill without explanation or damp spots on the floors or walls.
Once the home is dry, water restoration specialists can repair any structural damage and clean and disinfect the property. They also remove natural debris, such as branches or leaves, and manmade debris, such as loose roof shingles, to prevent further damage. They can also replace moldy drywall and carpeting, and install new hardwood or vinyl flooring. They may also use antimicrobials to prevent the growth of mold.
Homeowners can also prevent further damage by taking steps to protect their belongings. For example, they should keep draperies closed and mop standing water promptly. They should also remove books and magazines from wet shelves to avoid warping. They should also take photos or video of the water damage to document it for insurance purposes. Homeowners should also avoid entering rooms with standing water and turn off the electricity in those rooms if possible.
It’s also a good idea to stay away from flooded areas until professional help is available. Water can carry bacteria and viruses that pose serious health risks to people, especially the elderly or sick. Additionally, if a home’s foundation is compromised by flooding or water damage, it may be unsafe to live in until it’s repaired.
It’s important to choose an IICRC-Certified expert to ensure a thorough and successful restoration. This certification indicates that the company follows best practices and stays up-to-date with the latest industry knowledge and techniques. Whether the damage is caused by sewage backup, a flood, or a water leak, IICRC-Certified experts can restore the property to its pre-loss state. They can also work with homeowners’ insurance companies to file claims and negotiate settlements.
Identifying the Source of the Water
The first step in water damage restoration is identifying the source of the problem. This can be difficult, especially in older homes or apartment buildings with dated plumbing. Fortunately, modern leak detection equipment can help homeowners locate the source of a leak without ripping up floors or cutting holes in walls. Homeowners can also prevent leaks from becoming major problems by regularly checking faucets, toilets and other fixtures for signs of a problem. In addition, they should regularly check their water bill to see if there is an unexplained spike in usage.
Once the source of the leak is identified, a plan can be drawn up to get the leak fixed, the area dried and any water damage restored. This may involve removing and replacing damaged materials, including drywall, carpeting and floorboards. It is also important to note that a lot of building materials can be salvaged with the right care, so it is not always necessary to remove and replace all materials.
After determining the extent of the water damage, a water restoration company can give an estimate of how long it will take to dry out the area and the estimated cost of repair and restoration. This information can then be submitted to an insurance adjuster, who will typically come out and inspect the work to ensure it meets their standards.
In many cases, an insurance adjuster will also meet with the contractor who performed the mitigation to ensure everyone is on the same page about how to move forward. Depending on the terms of the policy, this can be a good idea as it will allow the insurance adjuster to answer any questions or concerns that the restoration company may have.
It is best to contact a water restoration company as soon as possible, even if the home has only minor water damage, because the longer it is left unattended, the more extensive the damage will become and the higher the cost will be to restore it. In addition, a quick response can also save money by limiting the amount of water damage that is caused to the building structure and personal belongings.
Documenting the Damage
Before the restoration process begins, it’s important to thoroughly document the damage caused by water. This step can help ensure that the insurance company approves the claim and covers all the restoration costs. It’s also a great way to keep track of any items that have been repaired or replaced.
Before attempting to document the damage, it’s essential to make sure that it’s safe to enter the home. Depending on the severity of the damage, it may be necessary to shut off the electricity and gas and wear safety gear. This includes rubber gloves, a face mask that filters spores and eye protection. It’s also a good idea to have someone outside the home recording the scene on video.
Once the area is safe, the water damage restoration expert will start by assessing the amount of water infiltration and the severity of the damage. This is typically done using tools such as hygrometers and moisture detectors. In some cases, a mold test may be needed to determine the presence of mold and the type of mold.
After the initial assessment, the specialist will start removing the water from the affected areas. This may involve removing carpeting, cutting out drywall or cleaning surfaces. In more serious cases, a full reconstruction of the affected areas may be needed.
The next stage involves drying and dehumidifying the affected areas. This can be done by running air movers and dehumidifiers in the space or opening windows and doors to increase circulation. In some cases, the area may need to be sanitized with antimicrobial agents.
In the final stage, the specialists will restore the area to its original state before the water intrusion. This can include repairing or replacing drywall, flooring and trim. In the event of severe water damage, the specialists may also need to remove and replace items that are permanently damaged or destroyed.
Water damage can be devastating to your home or business, and the longer it lingers, the more expensive the repairs will be. If you are experiencing water damage, it’s critical to act quickly by contacting an IICRC-Certified Water Damage Restoration Professional near you!
Contacting an IICRC-Certified Expert
The IICRC is an industry-recognized, non-profit organization that sets standards and certifications for professionals in the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industries. When hiring a restoration company, look for the IICRC logo to ensure that your home or business is being handled by highly-skilled and trained technicians.
The process for becoming certified involves multi-day classes with classroom instruction and hands-on training followed by an examination. Once a technician becomes certified, they are expected to uphold a high standard of ethics and professionalism when performing cleaning or restoration services. When hiring an IICRC-Certified firm, you can rest assured that your home or business is being handled by extremely knowledgeable and professional experts who are up to date on the latest building requirements and procedures.
Another benefit of hiring an IICRC-Certified company is that they will typically work with your insurance provider to handle the restoration process. This can help to speed up the restoration process and allow you to get back into your home or business more quickly. Additionally, IICRC-Certified professionals are expected to adhere to a strict code of ethics and will prioritize your safety and the health of your home or office.
A qualified IICRC-Certified restoration technician will be able to develop effective restoration plans and execute them effectively. They will also understand the health consequences of water damage and be able to identify and remove any bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms that may be present in the property. They will also have an in-depth understanding of drying science and how to properly dehumidify the affected areas.
Finally, a qualified IICRC-Certified technician will be able to provide you with open and clear communication throughout the restoration process. This will give you peace of mind knowing that the company you hired is working hard to restore your property and will keep you updated on the progress of the project.